Developing and maintaining HIV-related websites: a view from the other side

Technology is an increasingly necessary tool for therapists to maintain a successful practice. Studies have not examined how decisions about the content and format of health-related websites are made, which may help providers direct clients to more credible online resources and provide suggestions of how to most efficiently develop a professional website. As an example, the overall aim of this study was to examine the decision-making processes of persons who manage HIV-related websites. A total of 21 managers representing 19 HIV-related websites completed a semi-structured, telephone interview to understand how decisions are made about the content and design of their websites, the purpose of their website and their educational background. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed and imported into N-Vivo for analysis. Results showed that informational clearinghouse websites played a central role in developing content to place on their websites, while research and medical facilities tended to rely on experts in their organizations to develop content. Format decisions were primarily affected by user bandwidth and resource requirements of different formats. Few managers reported receiving feedback from users about their website. Managers described the need for ongoing training of the latest technology developments in their field. Implications for sexual and relationship therapists are discussed.